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Sensitive,
real-time microbiology results are now available to ensure complete
quality control and increase production efficiency in semiconductor
device manufacture. This follows the introduction of the Chemunex
ChemScan RDIŽ into the semiconductor marketplace.
Already IBM
has recognised the value of this innovative system and is now
routinely using ChemScan RDI for the real-time monitoring and
control of microbial contamination in their state-of-the-art hard
disk manufacturing facility in Mainz (Germany).
As an established
industry standard for rapid testing of high purity water systems
in pharmaceutical production, the ChemScan RDI provides reliable,
sensitive results within just 90 minutes. This enables proactive
monitoring and control of the wafer manufacturing process, thereby
avoiding loss of yield from a contamination event. Currently,
when using traditional plate count methods, such an occurrence
may only be detected after 2-14 days. Bacteria, unlike other particles,
are dynamic and can replicate quickly, leading to system contamination
in hours.
Ideal for
meeting the stringent quality control requirements of the semiconductor
industry, the ChemScan RDI is sensitive to the level of one microorganism
and can detect cells from biofilms that may be missed by plate
counts.
The system's
combination of speed and sensitivity is provided by the use of
two proven technologies: fluorescent cell labelling and laser
scanning. After membrane filtration of the sample, any microorganisms
trapped on the surface of the membrane are fluorescently labelled
with the Chemunex FluorassureŽ reagents.
Following
labelling, automatic laser scanning of the membrane analyses the
entire surface in three minutes and displays the result as total
bacterial counts. Result confirmation can be achieved in seconds
using an automated microscope attachment linked to the ChemScan
RDI system. In addition, the test is completely standardised,
with automated analysis ensuring reproducibility.
Use of this
simple, four-step method minimises downtime and provides extended
tool operation when bacterial levels remain low. Cleaning effectiveness
can be immediately confirmed, which allows facilities or tools
to be quickly released back into operation after shutdown with
no risk.
The ChemScan
RDI also cuts analytical costs by being easy to use, with minimal
training, and by eliminating the need for dedicated facilities.
Furthermore, it is more cost-effective per test than the use of
external testing laboratories.
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